NHS Vale of York Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is asking that parents and carers in North Yorkshire continue accessing health services during the Covid-19 pandemic if they are worried about their child’s health.

Whilst it is extremely important to follow Government advice to stay at home during this period, it can be confusing to know what to do when a child is unwell or injured. It is important to remember that NHS 111, GPs and hospitals are still providing the same safe care that they have always done.

Although Coronavirus/Covid-19 is infectious to children it is rarely serious and so if a child is unwell it is likely to be a non-coronavirus illness, rather than the coronavirus itself.

Dr Nigel Wells, a local GP and the CCG’s Clinical Chair said: “Thank you for all of your help with staying at home, protecting the NHS and saving lives, however if your child becomes increasingly unwell, please remember that is unlikely to be coronavirus and therefore it’s best to talk to a health professional either via NHS 111, contacting your GP practice or dialling 999 in urgent cases.”

The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health have outlined Red, Amber and Green guidance on what to do if children become unwell by listing a number of symptoms and the appropriate service to contact. This includes advice for if a child has a fever, difficulty breathing or persistent pains.

“We want to ensure that parents and carers are asking for help if they need it and don’t worry at home. Health services are still running safely for those who need them.”